By Karen Guice | Webster Parish Council on Aging
Karen’s Korner,
I was thinking the other day about how important my grandparents were in my life. I read an article from a dear friend as she shared the significance and influence of her grandparents in her life. All those wonderful memories she had, brought tears to her eyes as she recalled all they had done for her.
And then she finished the article by quoting from her own grandchildren about the impact and tremendous influence she had been in their lives.
It really made me think about all that my Grandmothers had done for me.
My grandmother on my Daddy’s side immediately became my anchor when my Mother died, when I was four. She and my Daddy’s sister took on the nurturing role in my life as I grew into my teen and college years. They provided everything I could ever need, from provisions to discipline and beyond. Let’s just say that anchor did not let me drift. I had a solid foundation – in God, family, and community!
My grandmother on my Mothers’ side, kept me during the day while my other grandmother worked, as a lunchroom manager at the local school. She helped me with my schoolwork and kept me on the right track, always. She taught me how to cook, and oh my, was she a good cook. I came by my present shape honestly.
I owe them both so very much while my Daddy worked on pipe-lines and welded for a living, many times away from home for several days at a time.
The article went on to say the following: “Children somehow find a unique acceptance with grandparents which benefits them emotionally and mentally.” They teach values, responsibility, and always have “Words of Wisdom.” And they are not only role models, but playmates as well.
I could never repay my grands….they were awesome and they got smarter the older I became. Thanks to all the grandparents out there. You are special.